U.S. Ambassador Tilman Fertitta Faces Venice Protests on Liberty 250 Tour

According to Lianhe Zaobao, U.S. Ambassador to Italy and Texas billionaire Tilman Fertitta arrived in Venice on Friday, July 17, aboard his private superyacht Boardwalk as part of a “Liberty 250” maritime tour marking the 250th anniversary of U.S. independence, but he was met by hundreds of protesters. About 300 demonstrators marched nearby, holding signs that said Fertitta must leave, that Venice should not be used, and that billionaires have no place there. Some protesters tried to approach the yacht but were stopped by police, leading to a brief scuffle. Fertitta’s arrival was escorted by tugboats, police boats and jet skis, and local authorities were said to deploy navy, coast guard and police personnel at each coastal stop for security. The Italian Greens and Left Alliance criticized the government for using extensive police resources, saying it amounted to acting as Fertitta’s private bodyguards at taxpayers’ expense. Venice is due to hold the traditional Festa del Redentore on Saturday, July 18, with thousands expected to attend religious rituals and fireworks, and authorities have tightened security over concerns that protests could overlap with the celebrations.